A dye plant with multiple uses

A plant of the Rubiaceae family, madder has been cultivated since ancient times for its coloring properties. Its leaves, although secondary to the root for dyeing, can be used in light decoctions or herbal blends. They also find their place in artisanal preparations for skin care or as an ingredient in herbal scrubs.

Description

Thin, green leaves, sometimes slightly browned when dried. Discreet dry plant odor. Fibrous texture. Possible presence of petioles or stem fragments.

Nomenclature

• Common names: Madder, Dyer's madder
• Latin name: Rubia tinctorum
• Family: Rubiaceae
• Part used: Leaves
• Shape: Cut
• Origin: Southern Europe, Western Asia
• English name: Madder leaf
• Name in German: Färberrötenblatt
• Name in Spanish: Hoja de rubia
• Name in Italian: Foglia di robbia
• Name in Arabic: أوراق الفوة

Main virtues

In traditional herbal medicine, madder leaves are associated with gentle, general support uses. In cosmetics, they are used in the creation of herbal masks, skin toners, and homemade scrubs, working in synergy with other plants.

Main constituents

Flavonoids, phenolic acids, mucilages, traces of anthraquinone derivatives (less concentrated than in the root).

Use and dosage

• Infusion: 1 tablespoon for 250 ml of water, infuse for 10 minutes. Use occasionally.
• External use: decoction for compresses, masks or facial steam baths.
• Cosmetics: plant base for exfoliating preparations or homemade lotions.

Precautions, side effects and contraindications

• Plant generally well tolerated in external and moderate use.
• Not recommended for internal use by pregnant or breastfeeding women without medical advice.
• Not to be confused with the root, which is much more active and concentrated.

History and origin

Madder is an iconic plant of ancient dyeing. It colored the fabrics of the Egyptians, Romans, and many European peoples. Although its root was central to dye production, its leaves were not discarded: they were sometimes used in secondary medicinal preparations or composted to enrich the soil.

Miscellaneous information

• Packaging: kraft bag, airtight box or tinted glass jar.
• Storage: in a cool, dry place away from light.
• Shelf life: up to 18 months after opening.

Sources and references

• Pl@ntUse – https://uses.plantnet-project.org
• Manual of vegetable dyes – Artisan editions
• European ethnobotanical directory

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